Folic Acid: 3 Research-Backed Benefits
Folic acid supplements are taken as prevention of birth defects, specifically neural tube defects.
Demands for folate increase during pregnancy because it's required for the growth and development of the fetus. It’s required for DNA replication and red blood cell production.
In this article, we list claims of potential benefits and/or side-effects of folic acid that we have found research on. Every claim is listed with all of its sources. We get these claims from our Nutrition Tool.
We also have an article about folic acid named What Is Folic Acid & What Foods Can I Find It In? if you're interested in learning more.
Table of Contents
Research-Backed Beneficial Claims Of Folic Acid
These are some of the potential research-backed health benefits of folic acid.
1. Cell Health
Folic Acid - Cell Health
About this claim
A cell is the smallest unit of life. They provide structure for the body, taking nutrients from food, and carry out functions. Our cells require nutrients to function optimally. According to research, some specific nutrients can beneficially affect your cells. Healthy cells are vital for your overall health.
Research sources for this claim
- Compound Summary - Folic acid ◳
- Essential for hematopoiesis and red blood cell production
You are welcome to explore 36 other nutrients that share this research-backed claim in our nutrition tool.
2. DNA Synthesis
Folic Acid - DNA Synthesis
About this claim
DNA is synthesized by all living things. There are nutrients that may be important in DNA replication and DNA integrity.
Research sources for this claim
You are welcome to explore 13 other nutrients that share this research-backed claim in our nutrition tool.
3. Infant Development
Folic Acid - Infant Development
About this claim
Infants are children between 0-1 years of age. Some nutrients are essential for infants. They are necessary to lay the foundations for lifelong health. The most crucial nutrients for infants will they obtain from breast milk. When an infant doesn't breastfeed, it's crucial to make sure the child gets all the nutrients it needs.
Research sources for this claim
- Folic Acid Supplementation and Pregnancy: More Than Just Neural Tube Defect Prevention ◳
- Required for growth and development of the fetus.
You are welcome to explore 20 other nutrients that share this research-backed claim in our nutrition tool.